Trump Claims Modi Promised to Stop Russian Oil Purchases, Sparking Political Controversy in India

US President Donald Trump's assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised to halt Russian oil purchases has sparked a strong opposition backlash against the ruling BJP. This morning, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi accused the prime minister of being "frightened" of Trump and allowing the US president to dictate India's foreign policy.

Gandhi further criticized PM Modi for sending "congratulatory messages" to the US president despite repeated snubs and for his absence at the Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh.

"PM Modi is frightened of Trump. 1. Allows Trump to decide and announce that India will not buy Russian oil. 2. Keeps sending congratulatory messages despite repeated snubs. 3. Canceled the Finance Minister's visit to America. 4. Skipped Sharm el-Sheikh. 5. Doesn't contradict him on Operation Sindoor," Gandhi stated.

Early this morning, Trump surprised reporters at the White House by claiming that India would temporarily stop purchasing oil from Russia, a move he believes would cut funding to the Russian war effort in Ukraine. Trump asserted this commitment came directly from PM Modi, saying, "He assured me today that they will not be buying Russian oil. That's a big step."

India has not confirmed any such commitment. The country had previously been steadfast regarding its Russian oil purchases, citing growing energy requirements.

Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi questioned the government's "silence" on the matter and emphasized the need to refute Trump's "delusions." These included claims that the US president facilitated the India-Pakistan ceasefire in May with a 200% tariff threat, allegations about aircraft losses, and the Russian oil commitment.

"These delusions need to be debunked. Silence is betrayal in such a situation - He stopped the India-Pak 'war' with a 200% tariff threat - 7 jets were shot down - PM Modi has assured that no more Russian Oil purchase," the Rajya Sabha MP stated.

The Indian government had previously denied Trump's claim of mediating peace during the May conflict. Officials stated that the ceasefire resulted from Pakistani commanders' requests after recognizing they couldn't sustain further losses.